The 5 Best Places to Travel in August

End your summer on a high note with a getaway to one of the most breathtaking destinations across the globe. Whether you’re in search of relaxation by a lake or a trek to the top of a volcano, or want to catch a festival with *all* the florals or a weekend full of music, the spots below just go to show that some of the best vacays happen during the month of August. If there’s one thing we’re sure of, it’s that there’s never been better time to travel. Keep scrolling below to see what all the hype is about.

1. Bodega Bay, California: This seaside town is stationed in California’s wine country (on the Sonoma side) directly on the Pacific Ocean. Visitors flock to this rocky region to experience a plethora of parks, campsites, and dog-friendly beaches, like Doran Beach. The best part? While the rest of the country is dealing with humidity, this waterside oasis boasts cool, comfortable temps. If you prefer pastimes other than outdoor activities, there’s something for you too. The city puts on its annual Bodega Seafood, Art, & Wine Festival as a delicious way for tourists to take in the culture of the area over the course of a weekend. So be sure to come hungry!

2. Mount Fuji, Japan: If climbing Japan’s highest mountain is at the top of your bucket list, this is the best time to do it. From mid-July through August, the snow at the peak of this landmark briefly departs, making it the ideal time for climbers to take route. Fittingly enough, this is also the start to the official climbing season, so guided tours are available for amateurs who want to make the trek. If you’re merely hoping to view the scenic volcano from afar, the Five Lakes region, located on the northern side of the peak, still provides stunning views for you to enjoy while taking a less intense stroll. Pack your camera!

3. Lake George, New York: Want to escape the hustle and bustle (and heat!) of summertime in NYC? Lake George is the perfect place to go outside of the usual Hamptons scene. This destination is just under four hours from the Big Apple and lies directly in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, for 32 miles of gorgeous lakeside scenery. For those who want take a trip in style, wining and dining at the luxury Sagamore Hotel is a must. Others who want to keep it more low-key can opt for camping and star-gazing at the glamping site Camp Orenda. Either way, your stay is bound to feel like a true departure from busy city sidewalks and touristy crowds.

4. Seattle, Washington: While this West Coast destination typically doesn’t experience weather to write home about, the month of August is an exception. Seattle is beautiful during August, with all of its natural features finally experiencing a dose of much-needed warmth and sunlight. While we highly encourage wandering around and exploring the Puget Sound, other visitor highlights include the colorful Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum, lively Pike Place Market (and the famed location of the original Starbucks) and, of course, the Space Needle. If you’re lucky enough be in town for Labor Day weekend, Bumbershoot Festival is a musical treat both travelers and locals alike look forward to going to all year long.

5. Brussels, Belgium: When you hear Belgium, you probably think of yummy cuisine like frites, chocolate, and waffles. (*Us too!*) So when we mention the famous Flower Carpet event that takes over during the month of August, you may be surprised. Here’s the scoop: From August 16 to 19, over 500,000 flowers will be woven into a tapestry-like arrangement covering the Grand-Place grounds. The final result is an Insta-worthy creation that’s a testament to the area’s colorful culture. Visitors can also experience all the city has to offer by museum- and/or café-hopping across the town. Put those walking shoes on!